What is the difference between radar rain sensors and tipping bucket rain sensors?

Product Introductions  

The Tipping Bucket Rain Sensor is a classic mechanical instrument designed to measure rainfall by converting water accumulation into electronic signals. It features a 200mm-diameter stainless steel collector funnel that directs rainwater to a pivoting ABS tipping bucket. The bucket is calibrated to tip when it accumulates 0.1mm or 0.2mm of rainfall (user-selectable resolution), triggering a reed switch to send pulse signals to a data logger. Key specifications include:  

- Accuracy: ±4% at a rainfall intensity of 2mm/min  

- Temperature Range: -20°C to +80°C  

- Output Options: Reed switch pulses or RS485 (with a 12-24VDC power supply)  

- Optional Features: A 350W auto-heating system (powered by 220VAC) to prevent icing, and a removable debris filter to block leaves and insects  

This sensor is trusted in applications requiring consistent, mechanical measurement, such as traditional weather stations and agricultural irrigation systems.  

2. RK400-13 Radar Rain Sensor

This sensor is engineered for harsh or remote environments.  

——Technology and Mechanism  

The tipping bucket sensor operates via a mechanical "seesaw" mechanism: rain fills one side of the bucket, causing it to tip and generate a pulse. This physical interaction means it can only measure liquid rain and requires periodic cleaning to prevent blockages (though an optional debris filter helps). In contrast, the radar sensor uses electromagnetic waves to analyze precipitation from a distance, eliminating mechanical wear and enabling detection of rain, snow, and hail without direct contact.  

——Performance Specifications  

- Resolution: Both sensors offer 0.1mm resolution, but the tipping bucket also supports 0.2mm as an option.  

- Rainfall Intensity: The tipping bucket is designed for up to 4mm/min of measured rainfall (with a maximum allowable intensity of 10mm/min), while the radar sensor can handle up to 200mm/h.

- Environmental Tolerance: The tipping bucket may require optional heating in freezing conditions to prevent the bucket from icing up, whereas the radar sensor’s non-contact design makes heating unnecessary, even in sub-zero temperatures.  

——Maintenance and Durability  

The tipping bucket’s moving parts require occasional maintenance to clear debris and ensure proper pivoting, while the radar sensor’s solid-state design eliminates this need, making it ideal for remote or hard-to-access locations.

When to Choose the Tipping Bucket Rain Sensor

 - Standard Weather Monitoring: Ideal for weather stations, hydrometric stations, and agricultural fields where consistent rain measurement is needed in relatively clean environments.  

- Cost-Effective Solutions: Suitable for users prioritizing affordability in applications without complex precipitation types (e.g., no snow or hail).  

Conclusion